Security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) have assured persons with disabilities (PWDs) of safety during the forthcoming election. This assurance was announced on Thursday at the launch of the Albino Foundation Africa Election App, held during an inter‑security agencies training workshop on disability‑inclusive election security funded by the European Union.
INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu emphasized that PWDs constitute a major democratic demographic with strong electoral influence. He noted that guaranteeing the right of PWDs to vote and to be elected represents one of the most visible gains in a thriving democracy. Representing INEC’s Southwest region, National Commissioner‑in‑charge Prof. Kunle Ajayi explained that PWDs face numerous obstacles throughout the electoral and political processes, which diminish their contributions to the nation’s development. Ajayi highlighted that, while INEC has established a disability framework to create a level playing field for the PWD community, other stakeholders—particularly security agencies—must also play a crucial role in achieving a truly inclusive 2023 General Election.
Ajayi warned that in cases of electoral violence, threats, or intimidation, PWDs are among the most vulnerable groups and are likely to avoid the polls, leading to voter apathy and disenfranchisement. He called on security agents to prioritize the safety and protection of PWDs, thereby giving them the confidence to vote en masse on election day.
Speaking at the event, Police Commissioner for Election Affairs Basil Idegwu pledged that police personnel would provide maximum security for PWDs as they cast their ballots. He recalled that in 2021 a PWD desk was established in all zonal and state offices across the federation. Idegwu acknowledged that the current security situation in various parts of the country poses a threat to the 2023 general election and requires a robust strategy, working closely with PWDs to ensure their safety is prioritized.
Jake Epelle, Chief Executive Officer of the Albino Foundation Africa, linked insecurity to voter apathy, stressing the need for security personnel to reassure voters on election day. He urged security agencies to provide comprehensive protection for PWDs before, during, and after the election. “The greatest problem in the PWD community is voter apathy, driven by insecurity,” Epelle said. “For PWDs who wish to participate in the electoral process, security is essential. You will deploy officers to polling units, and the PWD community is counting on you to guide, protect, and affirm our priority voting rights.”
According to the Foundation, the app’s dashboard contains data on eligible PWDs who will vote in the 2023 elections. This information will help INEC allocate resources effectively on election day.
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